With just three games remaining on the schedule, the Swans likely can maintain a Finals spot with any victory – but it may not work out that way.

The second-place Miami Saints are of course a major threat, but the upstart Bombers (2-2); as well as the Florida Lions (2-0) and Starfish FC (1-2) also all loom large for the stretch run, as each has up to six games remaining, and each could pass the Swans up on the chase.

St. Pete’s slumping score differential also lurks as a potential hazard, with two blowout losses (to Starfish FC and Miami) make the Swans’ current view from atop the ladder one full of dangers from below.

While the Swans will not return to MLF action until August 11 in a rematch with Miami (3-1), the ladder battle will heat up Saturday, July 21 when the Lions take on Starfish FC in a matinee twin-bill.

A sweep of this weekend’s affair would rocket the Leos to 4-0, into second place and easily within striking range.

For nearly a full month, the Bloods can only watch and hope for the best.